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HB 476

Civil Actions - Noneconomic Damages - Personal Injury and Wrongful Death

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Regina Boyce and 7 co-sponsors

Maryland HB 476 modifies how noneconomic damages are awarded in personal injury and wrongful death cases, affecting injury victim compensation amounts.

Hearing 2/18 at 1:00 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 476

Legislative bill overview

HB 476 appears to address noneconomic damages (pain, suffering, emotional distress) in personal injury and wrongful death civil lawsuits in Maryland. The bill has recently been introduced and referred to the Judiciary Committee with a hearing scheduled for February 18, 2026. The specific provisions modifying how noneconomic damages are calculated or capped are not detailed in the available information.

Why is this important

Noneconomic damages caps or modifications directly affect how much injured parties or families of deceased individuals can recover in court beyond medical bills and lost wages. This impacts both the civil justice system's ability to compensate harm and healthcare/business liability insurance costs, which ultimately influence healthcare access and pricing for Maryland residents.

Potential points of contention

  • Damage caps vs. jury discretion: Any limitation on noneconomic damages may be argued as restricting juries' ability to fairly compensate severe suffering, or alternatively, as necessary tort reform to control lawsuit costs
  • Impact on vulnerable populations: Plaintiffs with catastrophic injuries, permanent disabilities, or families of wrongful death victims may face reduced compensation under modified damage rules
  • Business and insurance community interests: Healthcare providers, manufacturers, and insurers typically support damage limitations to reduce litigation costs and insurance premiums, creating opposing lobbying efforts

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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